CrewCab Frame question (1/2T vs 3/4 T)??????

[Hart_Rod]

I'm trying to figure out the best way to build a frame for my 4 Door CrewCab. It is currently sitting on a 3/4 Ton LWB chassis. I've purchased a completely redone SWB 1/2 Ton chassis. I see my options as:

1. Shorten the 3/4 Ton frame and transfer all the parts over from the 1/2 Ton.
2. Cut the rear clip off of the 1/2 Ton and graft it on to the 3/4 Ton and transfer the front suspension from the 1/2 T frame.
3. Cut the extended portion out of the 3/4 Ton frame, then split the 1/2 Ton frame and graft in the 3/4 Ton section.
4. Split the 1/2 Ton frame, find another donor frame for donor rails and make it match the original 3/4 ton frame (as far as where the cab mounts).

I'm leaning towards #4. Any one else got any ideas? Also, why is there a difference in the 1/2 and 3/4 Ton cab mount bushings? Are the mounts the same and just the bushings different? Thanks.

[BK]

id say swap front crossmembers, then graft on the rear of the 1/2 ton.

[pharcydekm]

Hmm I think it really depends on what you plan on doing with it. Bags, Body drop, Stock height, static drop. If it was me (and I would love to build a crew cab) I would probably use the 1/2 ton front member and build new frame from the firewall back. I would use 2x4 1/4" Box and build my Z in all at the same time. If I was not going for that extreme of a build Then I would say shorten the 3/4 ton and swap over the parts.
I would do alot of measuring on the frame though make sure it is still square and straight before you begin.

Reguardless though I can't wait to see the progress and I am Jealous you have a crew cab.

[Hart_Rod]

The 1/2 ton chassis already had an ECE 2/4 drop and has been completely rebuilt. That's why I'm leaning toward just lengthening it.

[PanelDeland]

You could stretch the 1/2 ton frame.Maybe use a donor frame for shape and plate the rail then use a channel on the inside to further strengthen the frame.What type of bed do you plan on using?If it's going to be a pickup bed then a factory frame is probably easiest.If you're using a flatbed a custom frame makes since because you can design the frame and bed however you want it.

[Hart_Rod]

Originally Posted by PanelDeland

You could stretch the 1/2 ton frame.Maybe use a donor frame for shape and plate the rail then use a channel on the inside to further strengthen the frame.What type of bed do you plan on using?If it's going to be a pickup bed then a factory frame is probably easiest.If you're using a flatbed a custom frame makes since because you can design the frame and bed however you want it.

It's going to have a short wide box on it. I'm thinking the factory frame will be the easiest and quickest. Not going for "WOW", I just want to build a good solid frame.

[PBFAB.COM]

If it were mine, and I was trying to achieve the same objectives, I would shorten the 3/4 ton frame and swap all the components over from the 1/2 ton frame. I think it would be easier and better to worry about only one seam in the frame-rails.

[Hart_Rod]

Originally Posted by porterbuilt

If it were mine, and I was trying to achieve the same objectives, I would shorten the 3/4 ton frame and swap all the components over from the 1/2 ton frame. I think it would be easier and better to worry about only one seam in the frame-rails.

PB,

The original frame looks like it was extended by adding in a section from another truck. So it has two seams also. That's another reason I'm leaning towards lengthening the 1/2T frame. It will be essentially the same as the 3/4T frame, as far as the seams go.

R

[72 cheyenne pdx]

I think I would do the #4 option. I myself have no experience, but have seen a few videos on stretching limos and other vehicles. What was shown was them cutting the car in half and graphing parts needed from a donor car. It was real cool to see it happen from start to finish. But what do I know, I am just a squirrel trying to get a nut.


That's just my 2 pennies.


Any way you go, GOOD LUCK, and show us progress.

[Hart_Rod]

Here are some pictures to help clear up my rambling:

[Hart_Rod]

More pics:

[PBFAB.COM]

Since the 3/4 ton chassis has already been cut-up, take the 2wd frame and lengthen it!

[Hart_Rod]

Originally Posted by porterbuilt

Since the 3/4 ton chassis has already been cut-up, take the 2wd frame and lengthen it!

Now the question is, cut the lengthened section out of the 3/4T or make my own from a scrap frame? I really don't need the 3/4T frame anymore but I hate to cut it up.

[PBFAB.COM]

Originally Posted by Hart_Rod

Now the question is, cut the lengthened section out of the 3/4T or make my own from a scrap frame? I really don't need the 3/4T frame anymore but I hate to cut it up.

Cut it up.

[Hart_Rod]

UPDATE: This is what I ended up doing, post #103 and down.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=226302&page=3